8th June 2023, Mumbai: In a heartwarming display of admiration and solidarity, renowned actress Raveena Tandon presented the esteemed Kashish Rainbow Warrior Award to acclaimed filmmaker Onir during the opening ceremony of the 14th Kashish International Queer Film Festival. The star-studded event, held in Mumbai, was a celebration of diversity, inclusivity, and the profound impact of cinema.
The festival kicked off with the premiere of Onir’s latest film, “Pine Cone,” which immediately captivated the audience with its powerful storytelling and exploration of queer relationships. The movie fearlessly pushed the boundaries of societal norms, shedding light on the experiences of the LGBTQ+ community and bringing their stories to the forefront.
Receiving the Kashish Rainbow Warrior Award holds great significance for Onir, particularly during Pride Month and amidst ongoing discussions about same-sex marriage. Overwhelmed with joy, Onir expressed his gratitude, saying, “This award is incredibly special, not only because it is Pride Month, but also because it’s Kashish, and it’s special that this award of love happens in My city… Mumbai. I thank Kashish Film Festival and Sridhar for this award. I am humbled.”
Onir also took a moment to express his heartfelt appreciation for Raveena Tandon, who has been a loyal friend and supporter for the past 23 years. Emphasizing their deep bond, Onir shared, “I am happy to receive this award from my friend Raveena, who is a lifelong ally. And I am happy that in the audience today is my friend, my biggest support system, my Nikhil, my business partner Sanjay Suri.” He further added, “For me, this award is for all those in countries across the world where we are still criminalized, murdered, and humiliated. This is to tell them that we will win, and you are in our thoughts.”
The Kashish Rainbow Warrior Award not only recognizes the outstanding contributions of filmmakers like Onir but also serves as a powerful reminder of the struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community worldwide. Through this award, Onir and Raveena Tandon stand as beacons of hope, affirming their commitment to the fight for equality and justice. Their support sends a resounding message that love and acceptance will ultimately triumph over discrimination and oppression.